The Managing Director of Ecobank Nigeria, Mr Bolaji Lawal, has reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s creative economy through inclusive platforms that connect artists to markets, investors and global audiences.
Lawal, represented by the Head, SMEs, Partnerships and Collaboration, Ecobank Nigeria, Ms Omoboye Odu, spoke at the opening of the third edition of the +234 Art Fair 2026, with the theme, “Inclusivity”, held on Wednesday evening at the Ecobank Pan-African Centre in Lagos.
He described the fair as more than an exhibition, noting that it had evolved into a movement that positions Nigerian art as both cultural expression and viable business.
“When most people hear ‘+234’, they think of a phone number. We see it as a nation calling the world and the world is responding.
“This fair is where finance meets creativity, where boardrooms shake hands with brushstrokes, and where capital meets canvas.
“It shows that art is not only culture and identity, but also a serious economic force,” he said.
Lawal said the 2026 edition focuses on expanding access and opportunity for emerging and under-represented artists, while strengthening the commercial value chain around art.
According to him, Nigeria’s creative sector is vibrant and increasingly investable, adding that structured support can make it scalable, exportable and a major source of jobs for young people.
The managing director said that inclusivity for the bank meant opening more doors for young artists, giving greater visibility to under-represented voices and creating stronger links between art and enterprise.
“As Ecobank, we are intentional about supporting sectors that diversify the economy, empower youth and create sustainable value,” Lawal stressed.
He added that the fair, organised in partnership with Soto Gallery, reflected a shared belief that African creativity deserved strong institutions and long-term backing.
Lawal also acknowledged the support of lead partners, including the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC), for backing not only physical infrastructure but also the cultural infrastructure that shapes Africa’s global influence.
The fair features curated exhibitions by emerging and established artists, masterclasses, live installations, panel sessions linking finance and the arts, a children’s creative zone, a collectors’ lounge and curated culinary experiences.
Also, the Director-General of the National Arts Theatre, Ms Tola Akerele, described the fair as a platform that bridges creativity and commerce while expanding access to new voices.
She said this year’s theme underscored the need to deliberately reach artists beyond established networks and create opportunities for wider participation.
She said, “Inclusivity means going beyond the familiar spaces to discover talents who may not always have access to major platforms.
“We received thousands of expressions of interest from artists across Nigeria.
“That tells us the demand for access is huge, and platforms like this must continue to grow.”
Akerele noted that the fair provides an avenue for artists to engage directly with collectors, investors and the public, encouraging dialogue and feedback that can shape careers.
“Beyond showcasing art, this is about building confidence, creating visibility and helping artists understand the business side of their craft.
“We want people to come, experience the works, speak with the artists and be part of a creative ecosystem that is inclusive and forward-looking,” she said.
The +234 Art Fair runs for four days and is expected to attract artists, collectors, investors and members of the public from across Nigeria and beyond.
